The United States of America, generally known around the globe as the "USA," is and continues to be the largest economy in the world since the industrial revolution. As such, its population has access to vast amounts of information about social, economic and domestic issues as well as an understanding of international matters.
 
If one is thinking of doing business with other countries around the world, the first question that should be asked is: what are the reasons I feel urged to do business internationally? Is it because I want to expand my market share? Or because business is failing in the domestic market? If it is the former, now is the best time to expand into the international market. However, educating oneself is imperative in the preparation for selling in a foreign land. If it is the latter, then there may be more homework to do in a particular domestic market before trying to sell overseas.
 
If this is an individuals first venture into the international arena, initially begin studying things domestically.  Attending international conferences and/or joining International Trade Associations.  One of the largest benefits of joining an International Trade Association is meeting people who have knowledge and experience about international matters as well as knowledge of the mechanics of doing business in other countries. Additionally, one may make business contacts with important international players, such as: foreign freight forwarders, international sales and insurance representatives, international consultants, international corresponding banks, financial institutions with expertise in letters of credit, multi-national corporations and more.
 
Individuals with experience in international business, as well as first time foreign entrepreneurs, should also take a deep analysis of what they are intending to do. Study your target markets in order to determine if the intended product will be accepted by the local society.  For instance, if the products happen to fall into the "Pornographic Industry" or its affiliates, it is unlikely that the particular product line will even make it to the ocean port of a foreign country.
 
Additionally, other countries have different rules, regulations and laws that are often far different from those in the USA. Knowing and understanding these other regulations requires a higher plateau or knowledge, including an understanding of the cultural background of the country that an individual would like to do business with. If the business or product is incapable of conforming to these other rules, one will need to withdraw the idea of doing business internationally.
 
It is fairly easy to obtain information about all areas of doing business overseas. The US government has vast resources of information that can help one bring and sell products to any place in the world. Both the United States Department of Commerce and each of the US Embassies located all around the world have very useful information for citizens and entrepreneurs interested in international business.
 
Moreover, despite the current economic downturn, the opportunities for international business still exist. In fact, the opportunities may be better now than they ever were, given the series of unilateral Free Trade Agreements (FTA) the USA is signing with several countries around the world. These FTAs make a far easier road to doing business internationally. 
 
Therefore, people wishing to enter the international market should not be discouraged. Pursue your dreams by educating yourself and doing the necessary preparation to succeed!
 
As a final comment, if one has properly researched and prepared for selling overseas, chances of failure are very slim. USA products are usually associated with high quality and therefore sell very well. This positive perception by the world's consumers will ultimately help one succeed.
 
By: Victor R. Florian
MBA in Int'l Mgmt
Vita Board member
Tel. (818) 885-1878
E-mail: roccausa@yahoo.com
 
For information and details on seminars and international conferences call The Valley International Trade Association (VITA) at: (818) 379-7000.